Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals was literally unlike any other in league history.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.In addition to the New York Knicks playing in the championship round for the first time this century, President Donald Trump attended Monday’s game, becoming the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals matchup.The combination of immense anticipation plus Trump’s presence created a unique atmosphere at Madison Square Garden.Fans who paid thousands of dollars for tickets waited in lines that stretched New York City streets to accommodate the security presence that Trump requires.Add NBC News to GoogleTrump booed at Madison Square Garden during NBA Finals game00:46Players themselves were required to undergo extra security measures when arriving at the arena, but the Knicks — who lost for the first time in 46 days — say the added pomp and circumstance played no role in their performance.“It is what it is.
This is the NBA Finals,” New York head coach Mike Brown said about the heightened atmosphere.“There’s going to be a lot of distractions, and you’ve just got to, as best you can, block them out and go play the game.”He added, in regards to the fans: “The energy around the city, the energy around the building, it’s off the charts.
You love it.”(Brown had much more to say about the game’s officiating, lamenting the fact the San Antonio Spurs shot so many more free throws in the second half via a monologue to start his postgame press conference.)Knicks big man Karl-Anthony Towns echoed his coach, saying the raucous home crowd “exceeded” his expectations.When asked about the extra layers that came with playing in Monday’s game, Towns said that “nothing has to do with us stepping on that court and executing and being disciplined in our game plan and approach.”00:39How much Knicks fans paid for NBA Finals tickets00:0000:00While the Knicks wouldn’t ...